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A South Asian family gathered together across generations

Historically Practical

Why Did Joint Families Become Common in South Asia?

Joint families became durable in South Asia because patrilocal marriage, inheritance, agriculture, collective property and kin-based care reinforced one another. The same institution also concentrated hierarchy, gendered labour and conflict.

Families gathered around a couple in an Indian marriage context, illustrating the social role of arranged marriage

Historically Practical

Why Did Arranged Marriage Become Common Across Many Societies?

Arranged marriage became common because marriage historically joined families, property and kinship systems as well as individuals. Modern outcomes depend far more on consent, autonomy, gender equality and family support…